Over the last several decades, In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) has enabled millions of couples around the world to hold their biological children. Yet, one question has historically troubled both doctors and patients: “How can we know for certain that an embryo is genetically healthy before transferring it into the mother’s womb?”
Historically, embryologists could only assess an embryo’s potential based on its visual appearance under a microscope. Today, molecular genetics has transformed reproductive medicine through Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT). At Ashoka Advanced IVF Hospital, Raipur, lead fertility specialist Dr. Suresh Agarawal and our advanced genetics team provide state-of-the-art PGT services to maximize pregnancy success, reduce miscarriage risks, and prevent inherited genetic diseases.
What Is Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)?
PGT is an advanced laboratory procedure performed during an IVF cycle that analyzes the genetic makeup of an embryo before it is transferred into the uterus. By identifying chromosomal abnormalities or specific genetic disorders prior to implantation, PGT ensures that only genetically balanced, healthy embryos are selected for transfer.
The Different Types of PGT: PGT-A, PGT-M, and PGT-SR
Preimplantation Genetic Testing is categorized according to what is being analyzed:
1. PGT-A (Aneuploidy Screening)
Aneuploidy refers to an embryo having an incorrect number of chromosomes (either missing chromosomes or extra chromosomes). Humans naturally have 23 pairs of chromosomes (46 total). PGT-A checks all 24 chromosomes (the 22 autosomes plus the X and Y sex chromosomes). It identifies conditions like Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome), Trisomy 18 (Edwards syndrome), or monosomies that cause early miscarriage or failed implantation.
2. PGT-M (Monogenic / Single-Gene Disorders)
PGT-M is designed for couples who carry a known hereditary genetic mutation, such as Thalassemia, Sickle Cell Anemia, Cystic Fibrosis, or Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). In Central India, sickle cell anemia and thalassemia traits are prevalent. PGT-M screens embryos to ensure the child does not inherit these debilitating genetic diseases.
3. PGT-SR (Structural Chromosomal Rearrangements)
Used when one or both partners carry balanced translocations or inversions, which predispose them to producing unbalanced gametes that result in recurrent miscarriages.
How Is PGT Performed? The Step-by-Step Laboratory Process
- Standard IVF / ICSI: Eggs are retrieved and fertilized using ICSI to ensure no stray sperm adhere to the outside of the embryo.
- Blastocyst Culture (Day 5/6): Embryos are cultured until they develop into multi-cellular blastocysts with a distinct Inner Cell Mass (future baby) and Trophectoderm (future placenta).
- Laser-Assisted Trophectoderm Biopsy: Using an ultra-precise medical laser, our senior embryologist safely removes 4 to 6 cells from the outer trophectoderm layer. The delicate inner cell mass is never touched.
- Vitrification (Flash-Freezing): The biopsied embryos are safely cryopreserved while their genetic samples are sent for molecular testing.
- Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS): DNA is extracted, amplified, and sequenced using cutting-edge Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) to determine chromosomal normalcy with greater than 98% accuracy.
- Targeted Frozen Embryo Transfer: A single, genetically confirmed normal (euploid) embryo is thawed and transferred into a prepared uterine lining.
Key Benefits of PGT-A in Modern IVF
| Clinical Advantage | Standard IVF (Visual Grading) | IVF with PGT-A (Genetically Tested) |
|---|---|---|
| Implantation Rate per Transfer | 40% – 50% | 65% – 75%+ |
| Miscarriage Rate | 15% – 30% (higher with advancing age) | Significantly reduced to < 8% – 10% |
| Time to Pregnancy | May require multiple transfers of abnormal embryos before finding a viable one | Fastest path to healthy live birth |
| Multiple Pregnancy Risk | Often requires transferring 2–3 embryos to achieve success | Safe Single Embryo Transfer (eSET) with maximum success |
Who Should Consider PGT Testing?
- Advanced Maternal Age (35 years and older): Chromosomal abnormality rates increase naturally as eggs age; PGT-A filters out affected embryos.
- Recurrent Implantation Failure (RIF): Couples with two or more previous unsuccessful embryo transfers.
- Recurrent Miscarriage (Recurrent Pregnancy Loss): Couples who have suffered two or more early pregnancy losses.
- Severe Male Factor Infertility: Elevated sperm DNA fragmentation increases the risk of embryonic aneuploidy.
- Carriers of Hereditary Genetic Diseases: Couples carrying thalassemia, sickle cell, or cystic fibrosis mutations.
Advanced Genetic Technologies at Ashoka IVF Raipur
At Ashoka Advanced IVF Hospital, Raipur, we are committed to making cutting-edge reproductive science accessible to families across Chhattisgarh. Under the clinical leadership of Dr. Suresh Agarawal, our facility offers comprehensive genetic counseling, micromanipulation biopsy systems, and seamless integration with premier molecular genetic laboratories.
Speak with Our Fertility & Genetics Experts Today
Eliminate the guesswork in your fertility journey and give your future child the healthiest possible start in life.
Appointment Helpline: +91 94255 03700
Location: Ashoka Advanced IVF Hospital, Raipur, Chhattisgarh.
Medical Disclaimer: This article is intended for patient education and awareness. Preimplantation Genetic Testing suitability must be evaluated in consultation with your reproductive specialist and certified genetic counselor.